Do You Have to Make Up Fasts for Period?
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other worldly pleasures from dawn to sunset. However, women who are menstruating are exempt from fasting. This exemption is based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who said, “Allah has exempted travelers and menstruating women from fasting.” (Sahih Muslim)
The reason for this exemption is that menstruation is a natural process that causes women to lose blood and energy. Fasting during menstruation can therefore be difficult and harmful to women’s health. In addition, women who are menstruating may also experience other symptoms, such as cramps, headaches, and fatigue, which can make fasting even more difficult.
Missed Fasts
When to Make Up Missed Fasts?
Women who miss fasts due to menstruation are required to make them up later. The fasts can be made up at any time during the year, but it is recommended to make them up as soon as possible. This is because the sooner the fasts are made up, the sooner the person will be forgiven for missing them.
There are a few exceptions to the rule that women must make up missed fasts. For example, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not required to make up missed fasts. In addition, women who are traveling or who have a medical condition that prevents them from fasting are also exempt from making up missed fasts.
How to Make Up Missed Fasts
To make up a missed fast, a person simply needs to abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset. The person can also choose to make up the fast by feeding a poor person. For each day of fasting that is missed, a person must feed one poor person. The person can either give the poor person food directly or donate money to a charity that provides food to the poor.
Tips and Expert Advice
- Start fasting gradually. If you’re not used to fasting, start by fasting for a few hours each day and gradually increase the amount of time you fast.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, or tea, before you start fasting and throughout the day.
- Eat healthy foods. Eat healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, before you start fasting.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate you and make fasting more difficult.
- Listen to your body. If you’re feeling faint, dizzy, or nauseous, stop fasting and consult with a doctor.
Conclusion
Fasting during the month of Ramadan is a rewarding experience, but it can be difficult for women who are menstruating. However, women who are menstruating are exempt from fasting. They can make up the missed fasts later, and there are a few exceptions to the rule that women must make up missed fasts.
If you’re a woman who is considering fasting during the month of Ramadan, talk to your doctor first to make sure that you’re healthy enough to fast. And if you have any questions about fasting during menstruation, be sure to consult with a qualified religious scholar.
Are you interested in the topic?
If you’re interested in learning more about fasting during the month of Ramadan, here are a few resources that you may find helpful:
- Fasting During Ramadan for Women by Islamicity.org
- Women and Fasting in Islam by AboutIslam.net
- Surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow) – Verse 185 from Quran.com
